Texas Senator Ted Cruz has faced widespread criticism after flying to Cancun, Mexico, for a family holiday while millions of Texans were left without power and water due to a severe winter storm. The Republican lawmaker returned on Thursday, calling the trip a 'mistake' after public outrage.
Mr Cruz said he planned the vacation for his daughters, who were off school, but changed his return flight because 'leaving when so many Texans were hurting didn't feel right'. He acknowledged the backlash, stating: 'If I had understood how it would be perceived, obviously I wouldn't have done it.'
The trip drew condemnation from Democrats and even some Republicans. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal tweeted: 'People in Texas are literally freezing to death and yet Ted Cruz went on vacation to Cancun.' Allen West, chairman of the Texas Republican Party, said Mr Cruz 'has to answer to his constituents'.
Critics also noted that Mr Cruz reportedly left his dog, Snowflake, at home, with a security guard caring for the animal. Additionally, his daughters' private school requires a seven-day quarantine after international travel, raising concerns about potential COVID-19 risks.
The winter storm has left at least 47 dead, millions without water, and food supplies running low. Temperatures dropped to -18C, the coldest in over 30 years. Mr Cruz, a former presidential candidate, faces potential damage to his political future as he considers another White House bid in 2024.
